The German automaker has garnered stellar sales results this year thanks to an extensive program of model refreshes, which has covered both the passenger and SUV ranges. Now the finishing touch will be to deliver the all new generation of the E-Class executive midsize sedan – scheduled to undergo its official worldwide public appearance during the forthcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit this coming January. Numerous details have surfaced about the model, which could feature technology not seen even in the flagship S Class model, but the latest report now concerns some technicalities – namely the E Class is expected by Car&Driver to arrive with an all-new engine family. The first unit (don’t imagine all powerplants will actually be part of the new program) could be a four-cylinder diesel that makes about the same power as its predecessor – 180 bhp (134 kW). The expansion of the engine program is expected to include next to the four-cylinder petrol mills the more classy inline-six cylinder petrol and diesel versions. Further down the engine ladder, the E Class could also come with an all new 48-volt mild-hybrid system – details are scarce for the time being but the magazine tips the model with a starter-generator linked to the car’s transmission. It should work with the start/stop system and would also be able to momentarily generate an enhanced power level when it’s not busy lifting fuel economy. After copious amounts of spy shots hitting the web, the E Class is believed to borrow its design lines from both the bigger S and smaller C Class, with an evolutionary exterior design in line with the current styling language and a more upscale interior featuring digital instrument readings, an enhanced infotainment system and better materials all around. Via Car & Driver